Can Indian students in the U.S. get a Social Security number (SSN)?

Indian students planning to study in the United States often ask, “How do I get a Social Security Number as an Indian student in the U.S.?”

The answer is that you can apply for a Social Security number (SSN) as an F-1 or M-1 visa student. While the process may seem complex, it’s quite straightforward if you have the required documents ready and properly attested by Indian authorities including UGC/AICTE where applicable.

To apply, you need to have a job offer, but even part-time, on-campus work qualifies you! Read our blog How to find a job in the U.S. as an international student for job search tips. Once you secure a job, visit your nearest Social Security Administration office in person with your documents to apply for an SSN card.

1. Indian student population in the U.S.Over 331,602 Indian students were enrolled in U.S. universities for the 2023-2024 academic year. India continues to be the leading source of international students in the U.S.Source: Open Doors Report
2. Employment outcomes for master’s degree graduates in the U.S.Nearly 90% of master’s degree graduates from the class of 2023 were employed or continuing their education within six months of graduation, reflecting strong career prospects for advanced degree holders. While this marks a 0.9% decrease from the class of 2022, it remains higher than employment outcomes recorded during the pandemic, highlighting the resilience of the job market for master’s graduates.Source: NACE – Class of 2023: Nearly 85% of Bachelor’s Grads Employed or Continuing Education
3. Impact of optional practical training (OPT) on career outcomes:The optional practical training (OPT) program allows international students in the United States to gain practical work experience in their field of study for up to 12 months, with an additional 24-month extension for STEM graduates. Source: Niskanen Center – Optional Practical Training (OPT) and International Students After Graduation

1. Prove your identity and Indian citizenship

A valid passport with an appropriate U.S. visa is essential when applying for an SSN. Depending on your specific situation, you may also need:

• I-551 Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
• I-766 Employment Authorization Document (EAD/work permit)
• I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
• Documents attested by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
• UGC/AICTE attestation for educational credentials
• State education board attestations where applicable

2. Prove your immigration status

If you’re an Indian F-1 or M-1 student, you must provide:

• Your I-20 form with a valid travel signature
• Valid Indian passport with F-1/M-1 visa
• Most recent I-94 record

If you’re a J-1 or J-2 exchange visitor, you need:

• Your DS-2019 form
• Valid Indian passport with J-1/J-2 visa
• Most recent I-94 record

Additional documents may be required:

• I-551 Lawful Permanent Resident Card or Machine Readable Immigrant Visa
• I-766 Employment Authorization Document
• Complete set of attested academic documents from relevant Indian authorities

3. Prove your work eligibility

For Indian international workers:

• Valid foreign passport with appropriate visa
• I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
• I-766 Employment Authorization Document (EAD/work permit)
• Letter from employer on official letterhead

For Indian F-1 students with on-campus employment:

• Valid I-20 Certificate of Eligibility with current programme dates
• Employment verification letter including:

• Job title and description
• Employment start date
• Number of hours per week
• Supervisor’s name and contact information
• Employer’s tax ID number

For Indian F-1 students on curricular practical training (CPT):

• I-20 with CPT authorization
• Approval from a Designated School Official (DSO)
• Offer letter from employer
• All documents should comply with both U.S. and Indian regulations

For Indian J-1 students or interns:

• Sponsor letter on official letterhead
• Original signature authorizing employment
• DS-2019 form with valid dates

Summary of required documents for Indian students

Are you an Indian student interested in studying abroad?

Learn more about MPOWER Financing for visa, career and financial support for international students. MPOWER makes it easy to apply for a private student loan without a cosigner or collateral, which is particularly beneficial for Indian students navigating RBI’s foreign exchange regulations. Check out our network of universities in the U.S. and Canada to see which schools are eligible for MPOWER loans.